The Historic Accent Wall That's Not Outdated (If You Follow These Design Tips)

Accent walls may seem like a modern trend, but the concept actually originated during the Renaissance, long before current bold colors and trendy decor took over. Although this style has evolved over the years, plenty of stylish homes will still incorporate accent walls with more historic attributes. Take the Beckham family for example — it's no surprise that David and Victoria have an ultra-chic home design, but their living room accent wall is anything but modern. In fact, their space offers some historic flair with an exposed brick accent wall; and while this style may feel retro, it looks stylish rather than outdated when paired with a thoughtful balance of modern and rustic decor.

Many of the accent wall ideas that you'll come across in 2025 emphasize texture and dimension, and while exposed brick may be an older feature, its characteristics align perfectly with these modern trends. This doesn't mean you can do no wrong with a brick accent wall — certain design choices may land as outdated, so it's important to be thoughtful about the decor you use. With the right approach, a brick wall can feel timeless, while creating the perfect focal point for your room's interior design.

Brick has stood the test of time in the design world, perhaps because it can easily adapt to various styles. There's a rustic appeal that these walls hold, which is perfect for adding some character within a fully modern space. To avoid creating a dated look, pair brick accent walls with clean, minimalist finishes and Scandinavian-inspired furniture; this combination creates a balance that feels fresh and timeless. If you'd like to lean more on the rustic appeal, consider an approach similar to the Beckhams — in their home, they pair exposed brick with natural elements like wood beams, while incorporating more contemporary decor like plush furniture, modern lighting, and white walls. This arrangement helps emphasize the coziness and the historic appeal while keeping the space feeling current.

That said, there are many other ways to decorate a brick wall for a timeless aesthetic. For a brighter look that still showcases the brick's charm, try the German schmear, which adds a weathered look without completely covering the stone, giving your space a modern yet vintage vibe. In spaces like kitchens, where moisture is unavoidable, glazing the brick is a stylish way to add durability while still highlighting the historical personality of the wall. A brick accent wall is bound to add a vintage touch, but if your design veers too rustic, rather than harmonizing these features with more current decor, the natural charm may start to fade into the background.

Brick walls are seen as a timeless feature, but that doesn't mean they're immune to looking dated. There are many things to know before exposing hidden brick, one of which is the potential for accumulating dust. If your accent wall is shedding dust, it can quickly go from looking charming to worn out. Luckily, you can remedy this ahead of time by brushing your bricks with a sealant. 

Design choices like a dull color scheme can also diminish the appeal of a brick accent wall. Brick is naturally warm and rustic, but when surrounded by too many warm, brown tones it can make the design fall flat, since it will lack any kind of depth. Avoid being overly cohesive with decor — contrast and cool tones help build a timeless balance.

You may think a fresh coat of paint is going to liven up your brick, but many designers warn against it. Painting brick can hide the natural texture and character of the material, making it look flat and lifeless. The purpose of an accent wall is to add visual interest, and with brick, that natural vintage charm is the main attraction. Covering up this valuable asset, whether with paint or a busy gallery wall, will overshadow its beauty.